Law and policy framework governing wastewater (reuse) management in India

Abstract

Freshwater resources are becoming scarce and severely affected due to urbanization and industrial pollution. The per capita water supply to every Indian household is getting lesser than the recommended level. In this scenario, wastewater is considered as a new source of water supply for agriculture, industrial use, etc. Apart from the water laws, the government also adopted various policies and schemes to promote the reuse of treated wastewater for non-potable uses. However, the ineffective implementation of water laws and wastewater policies brought a new set of challenges. It is in this connection this paper analyses the comprehensive overview of constitutional provisions, key provisions of relevant laws, policies, rules, regulations, judicial intervention on wastewater management, and reuse in India. It also identifies implementation challenges in the enforcement of wastewater laws and byelaws in India.